Rob Halford Explains "Breaking the Law" Song Meaning in New Judas Priest Movie

A new movie about the band Judas Priest is coming out. Singer Rob Halford talks about why they wrote the famous song "Breaking the Law." He says it was about people's feelings and maybe about music being free.
By Newsroom | Music, Documentary |

A new documentary titled "The Ballad of Judas Priest" is set to offer a deep look into the influential heavy metal band's fifty-year journey. A preview clip has surfaced, featuring lead singer Rob Halford discussing the inspiration behind their iconic song "Breaking the Law." The documentary, which premieres at the 76th Berlinale – Berlin International Film Festival, promises unfiltered access to the band's history and their impact on the music world.

The release of this clip and the impending premiere of "The Ballad of Judas Priest" highlight the enduring legacy of Judas Priest and the specific cultural resonance of their 1980 hit, "Breaking the Law." The song's origins are now being explored in greater detail, offering fans a new perspective on its meaning and creation during a period of significant social and economic change in Britain.

Documentary Unveils Band's History and "Breaking the Law" Origins

"The Ballad of Judas Priest" aims to chronicle the band's trajectory from their beginnings in Birmingham, England, to their eventual induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The documentary includes interviews with Halford and other band members, alongside notable figures in music such as Billy Corgan, Lzzy Hale, Daryl McDaniels of Run-DMC, Scott Ian of Anthrax, and Tom Morello, who also co-directed the film.

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The song "Breaking the Law" was written in 1980, reportedly during the era of Margaret Thatcher's governance. Halford describes the song in the clip as a "revolution song," suggesting it was a reflection of the frustrations felt by the working class at the time.

"We have lived and breathed metal for over five decades, and finally in this documentary we are summoning our congregation to officially witness our lives uncensored, in a never-before-seen way…the cassock comes off, revealing Priest in all its metal glory." - Judas Priest (Joint Statement)

The band's statement emphasizes their intention to present their lives and career "uncensored," providing a comprehensive view of their five-decade presence in the music industry. The documentary will cover their 19 studio albums.

Interpreting "Breaking the Law": Metaphor and Social Commentary

Rob Halford offers a nuanced interpretation of the song's meaning. While acknowledging its roots in social commentary, he also suggests a metaphorical interpretation.

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Halford stated, "Maybe it was just a metaphor of you cannot cage this music, you cannot put this music behind bars." This perspective frames the song not just as a direct protest but as an expression of uncontainable creative energy.

Rob Halford Talks ‘Breaking the Law’ Inspiration in Clip From Judas Priest Documentary - 1

The music video for "Breaking the Law," which depicts the band robbing a bank to steal a gold record, is also noted for its symbolic layers. This visual narrative aligns with Halford's broader themes of rebellion and the assertion of artistic freedom.

A Glimpse into the Documentary's Scope

"The Ballad of Judas Priest" is being presented as a comprehensive look at the band's history. Co-directors Tom Morello and Sam Dunn expressed their gratitude for the band's willingness to grant intimate access.

"While some may know Judas Priest for their huge hits that have shaped the heavy metal genre, there is so much more to their story," co-directors Morello and Dunn said.

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The film's world premiere at the Berlinale Film Festival marks a significant event for the band and their global fanbase. The festival runs from February 12th to February 22nd.

Expert Insights and Band's Own Words

The documentary features insights from various musicians who acknowledge Judas Priest's significant role in shaping heavy metal. The band members themselves articulate a sense of fulfillment in finally sharing their unfiltered story.

Judas Priest's statement about the documentary highlights their desire to reveal their authentic selves: "the cassock comes off, revealing Priest in all its metal glory." This suggests an intention to move beyond public perception and showcase the core of their identity and career.

Conclusion and Future Viewing

The preview clip of "The Ballad of Judas Priest," focusing on Rob Halford's explanation of "Breaking the Law," provides an early indication of the documentary's depth and narrative direction. The film is poised to explore both the socio-political context that may have influenced the song and the broader, perhaps metaphorical, meanings that have allowed it to resonate across generations.

The documentary's premiere at the Berlinale Film Festival offers an initial platform for its reception. Further details regarding broader distribution and viewing availability are anticipated as the festival progresses. The narrative suggests a story that delves into the band's cultural impact, artistic expression, and the unyielding spirit of heavy metal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the new Judas Priest documentary called?
The new movie is called "The Ballad of Judas Priest." It tells the story of the band's fifty years in music.
Q: What does Rob Halford say about "Breaking the Law"?
Rob Halford says the song was about people feeling frustrated and maybe about music not being able to be stopped.
Q: Where did the band Judas Priest start?
The band Judas Priest started in Birmingham, England.
Q: When does the documentary premiere?
The movie will be shown first at the Berlinale Film Festival in February.